Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle Announces 2019 Scout Line-Up  

Indian Motorcycle has announced its 2019 60 ci, 100 hp, liquid-cooled V-twin Scout line-up with new paint options on Scout Sixty, Scout and Scout Bobber. Key feature upgrades for 2019 include an expanded ABS offering and a new USB charging port on Scout and Scout Bobber models.

New for 2019, an ABS (anti-lock braking system) is now standard on every non-black Scout Sixty, Scout and Scout Bobber model. For the Thunder Black color option, riders can choose between a model that’s equipped or unequipped with ABS. The Scout and Scout Bobber will also receive a USB charging port in 2019, a convenient feature that allows riders to charge a personal device while riding. The charging port is located near the speedometer for easy access. 

“The iconic Indian Scout family is a favorite amongst riders across the globe,” said Reid Wilson, Senior Director for Indian Motorcycle. “Since the addition of the Scout Bobber in July 2017, we’ve continued to evolve our Scout offering to meet the tastes of various riders, whether they prefer the heritage-inspired look of Scout Sixty and Scout or the stripped-down, blacked-out attitude of Scout Bobber. The refinements we’ve made for 2019 and the new paint options accentuate the wide appeal of the Scout line.”
Color options for the Scout Sixty with blacked-out engine include Thunder Black, White Smoke, Ruby Metallic and Star Silver over Thunder Black; for the Scout - Thunder Black, Deep Water Metallic, Metallic Jade, Indian Motorcycle Red over Thunder Black and Willow Green over Ivory Cream; for the Bobber - Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke and Bronze Smoke.
For current Scout owners looking to add the benefits of the USB charging port, Indian Motorcycle will now offer a USB Charging Port Kit, which can be installed on any ‘15-‘18 Scout or Scout Bobber model and any 2016 and up Scout Sixty.

Cherokee Blue Ridge Run

Cherokee Blue Ridge Run, September 7-9

Bob Kay has news - great news for custom builders in the United States. The Blue Ridge Run AMD Custom Bike Show, held at the Cherokee Blue Ridge Run in September is the newest event to join AMD’s World Championship Affiliate Program with prizing to compete in Germany in 2020, and Bob is back organizing the J&P Cycles Ultimate Builder custom bike shows at the IMS series again this winter ...

I have worked with my friend Robin Bradley since the first AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building was held more than 10 years ago, and Robin has probably had the biggest influence on the way I have structured bike shows since 2009.
Previously I had basically split my show classes between radical and mild, plus different Harley-Davidson production models. Since then I have been involved in numerous rally and trade event custom bike shows that do not necessarily focus on one brand or style, but rather what can be built from a specific platform. During the Sturgis years of the AMD World Championship I got more directly involved in the rules, the administration and the overall event - one that brought so many fine European, Asian, South American and from wherever in the world builders to Sturgis, South Dakota. 

With global economies slowing down and hitting the motorcycle industry square between the eyes, the decision was taken to move the AMD World Championship to Europe, specifically to Germany. Since then it has been my goal to give American builders the opportunity to travel to Germany with their custom creations and compete with many of the world’s best builders.
Back in the day, I organized my first charity bike show in the mid-eighties, during the Laconia Rally. I continued charity bike shows in Sturgis alongside the community center. I worked for Nempco then, so most of our shows were based around the current Harley trends. I think we had 15 classes and rewarded back to third place in each category. Our vendors were more than generous with merchandise sponsorship support. After all, 100% of our proceeds went to Muscular Dystrophy, a local charity we were thrilled to support.
The impending downturn started to affect the market as early as 2005, the weakening economy took its toll on the custom industry, forcing builders to consider less expensive, more stripped down bobbers and alternative power plants. The industry struggled to adjust, and in 2008 a new show format emerged in Born Free.
At about that time Robin invited me to Europe for a closer look at the European bike show scene. Subsequently, in 2010 I helped revamp the Ultimate Builder custom bike show series to be more reflective of the changes taking place in the custom scene.
Our first change was to base our classes on specific platforms. FreeStyle, the open platform class format pioneered by AMD, represented the elite builders, giving them the freedom to produce a custom bike limited only by their imagination and resources. We then came up with the Custom Street class, requiring the builder to start with an OEM chassis and drivetrain. 

We even offered a Harley-Davidson version of this class - Mod Harley. One of the most popular classes has been our Custom Retro for all ‘84 and earlier bikes of any brand with an original engine (no reproduction engines here), but that allows for a modified or custom chassis. The other aspect we introduced was a peer group judging system, taken directly from the AMD World Championship. What we discovered over the years is that peer judging works best with 50 plus judging entries, so in some of the smaller shows we will also have a committee for overview and to double check the results.
I am currently involved with ROT, the Republic of Texas Rally Kustom Kulture Bike Show as a stepping stone to the Cherokee Blue Ridge Run, which will send its Freestyle champion to INTERMOT in Cologne, Germany, to compete in the 2020 AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building. This year’s Blue Ridge Run AMD Custom Bike Show will be held in North Carolina September 7-9 during the revived Cherokee Blue Ridge Run.
In July we held the first Golden Bolt at L.A.’s The House of Machines, where we experimented with a new judging system. This system had three expert judges vote on each bike, but only in their area of expertise. With Chip Foose, Miguel Galuzzi and Mark Prosser as judges, it worked like a charm. Whether or not we can adapt this to other shows only time will tell, but the point is we are always trying to stay relevant to the current market, and maybe we can talk The House of Machines into sponsoring a West Coast AMD qualifier. 

Larry Moore came fourth in the Freestyle class in the 2016 World Championship

I am also thrilled to tell you that I have been invited to return to running the J&P Ultimate Builder custom bike shows for 2018/19.
Up until now we have brought three Americans to compete in Germany, Jon Shipley, Larry Moore and George Stinsman. This year I am bringing Jordan Dickinson from Union Speed and Tim Dixon from Gas Axe Chop Shop, sponsored by AIMExpo.
The AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building represents the heart and soul of custom bike builders worldwide. I am proud to be associated with this global effort that lets builders choose the direction they wish to take to showcase their talents. The Cherokee Blue Ridge Run has made a long- term commitment to support this custom builder exchange effort.
INTERMOT Customized is the INTERMOT show-within-show concept for Hall 10 at the Cologne expo center where the ‘AMD’ is staged. It is an entire custom hall with everything from parts, accessory and performance component manufacturers, the leading distributors in Europe and dealers (custom shops as well as Harley) right through to lifestyle exhibits, clothing, helmets, garage scene activity areas and several of the major OEs with secondary expo booths specifically to showcase their custom style programs.
Whatever the future will bring for the custom motorcycle world, one thing that I can promise you is that Robin Bradley, Neil Blaber, myself and the entire AMD team will be working hard to support it and take the message to the widest possible audience. In 2016 some 150,000 active, high-mileage riders visited INTERMOT Customized and saw first-hand what the custom market has for them.

Tucker

Tucker Adds Motone Customs

Tucker continues to build its list of custom motorcycle brand partners and has announced the exclusive distribution of Motone Customs Motorcycle Parts. 

Tucker says of its new partner that “Motone Customs is all about commitment: commitment to its customers and its suppliers; to treating them as they like to be treated. To only enter into relationships that satisfy both parties; to source, manufacture and supply the best products and experiences they can; to design and manufacture products that satisfy both the emotional and physical wants of motorcyclists looking to customize and personalize their bikes; and, to use life experiences to achieve these goals at a competitive, fair price.”
Owned and operated by two partners, Dale Crawford and Sam Wheeler, who both have lifelong relationships with motorcycles. Dale, a Californian through and through, started borrowing his older brother’s Honda 50 cc trail bike bored out to a 90 cc. At fifteen, late at night, he’d ride up the Pacific Coast Highway to the canyons branching out from Malibu - ”alone and free.”

Sam, who is from Great Britain, got his first bike when he was sixteen - a battered CB360 that he rode as his only form of transportation.
Sam’s entrepreneurial spirit led to him living in Vietnam, a nation that gets everywhere on small 125 cc motorcycles. Being surrounded daily by motorcycles and aftermarket parts, Sam started investigating where the parts were made and who made them. He found that there were only a handful of quality manufacturers and that they were simply reproducing replacement parts for the local market.
Sam’s idea was to develop new designs, provide them to the quality manufacturers to produce and then to sell the parts in the West. After painstaking trial and error, he succeeded.
Around this time, Dale was looking for another opportunity to capitalize on his years of business experience outside of the US. Max, Dale’s son, was brewing craft beer in Vietnam and had become close friends with Sam. Max introduced Sam and Dale, and upon their first meeting, Motone Customs was born.
It took over two years for Motone to design, manufacture and build enough inventory to open its virtual doors. Now expanding its offering, they use the latest technology to design parts, from clay modeling to CAD to 3D printing. The brand commissioned designers from England, Holland, Germany and the USA to help bring its vision to life.
They have gone from small CNC-machined value-added parts to stamping out steel and aluminum gas tanks on a 200 lb press in their facility. They injection mold knee pads and ABS side covers, and forge aluminum gas caps and exhaust flanges. The brand’s latest product line is high-pressure, injection die-molded, O.E.M. quality or better engine side covers along with gear and head covers.
Motone has evolved from Triumph air cooled parts, to Harley-Davidson Sportster Cafe Racers, to BMW R Nine T Kits. Soon, they’ll have complete exhaust systems for these bikes as well as seats and lights.
Motone Customs products are available from and distributed exclusively in the United States by Tucker.
www.tucker.com/v-twin

HardDrive

HardDrive adds Cardo

Boise, Idaho based HardDrive American V-Twin Products has added the leading rider communications range designed and manufactured by Cardo Systems - considered to be one of the global market leaders in wireless communications for motorcyclists.
“The U.S market has grown significantly in 2018 and has an even greater growth potential for 2019,” said Jonathan Yanai, Vice President of Global Sales.
“The collaboration between Cardo Systems and HardDrive enables us to support this fast growing market and expand our presence. HardDrive’s strong reach and excellent reputation makes them a great partner to deliver the growing demand for our communication systems across the United States,” Yanai explained.

Launched earlier this year, Packtalk Bold is described by Cardo as “the world's first natural voice-command operated motorcycle communications system”

Cardo Systems specializes in the design, development, manufacturing and sale of state-of-the-art communication and entertainment systems for motorcycle helmets. Since the company’s inception in 2004, Cardo has pioneered the vast majority of innovations for Bluetooth motorcycle communication systems. The company’s products, now available in over 85 countries, are considered to be some of the world’s leading communication devices for the motorcycle industry.
www.hdtwin.com
www.cardosystems.com

AIMExpo 2018

Indian Motorcycle Returns to AIMExpo Las Vegas, October 11-14

Indian Motorcycle will return to The American International Motorcycle Expo presented by Nationwide (AIMExpo) as an OEM exhibitor for the 2018 event, with an additional presence at AIMExpo Outdoors! where it will host demo rides of its 2019 model line-up. 
“We felt it was important to have a presence at the country’s premier powersports trade show, and our experience at AIMExpo last year provided us with unparalleled access to dealers, media and consumers,” said Reid Wilson, Senior Director for Indian Motorcycle.
“We recognize the value the show provides and the vital role it plays in the industry, and with the move to Las Vegas we wanted to make sure we’re a part of AIMExpo’s west coast debut.”

Each 2019 Indian model will be available to ride at AIMExpo Outdoors!, while also being prominently featured on the exhibit floor alongside the recently unveiled custom motorcycles from non-professional builders from “The Wrench: Scout Bobber Build Off” competition.  

“Indian Motorcycle is the hallmark brand of motorcycles in America, and its desire to utilize the AIMExpo presented by Nationwide platform to reach every facet of the industry under one roof will be well received with the contingent of media, dealers and consumers making the trip to Las Vegas,” said Cinnamon Kernes, Show Director. “Indian is taking full advantage of the opportunity the event provides with a prominent presence both indoors and outdoors. With the addition of Powersports Industry Week and an even larger contingent of enthusiasts descending on The Strip, Indian Motorcycle is sure to see a high volume of traffic.”
AIMExpo also announced that Vanderhall Motor Works Inc. of Provo, Utah will exhibit this year. The company says it plans to unveil the ‘Carmel’ - the newest addition to what becomes a five model line-up of American made “reverse trike” roadsters. Show visitors will also be able to get behind the wheel of a Vanderhall roadster at AIMExpo Outdoors!
Founded in 2010 by Steve Hall, Vanderhall produces hand-built, three-wheeled autocycles that feature a retro design “in the spirit of the American roadster, with a sleek and refined elegance that stands alone.”

“AIMExpo presented by Nationwide features the most diverse gathering of brands in the powersports industry, and the addition of Vanderhall personifies the dynamic collection of vehicles and products that attendees can see and experience,” said Show Director Cinnamon Kernes. “We’re excited to provide the opportunity to bring another American-made company into the spotlight, and Vanderhall recognizes the unparalleled value the show provides by unifying dealers, media, and consumers in one space. While it may be relatively new to the marketplace, Vanderhall realizes the role the show plays in the long-term health of the industry, in addition to its own success.”
www.aimexpousa.com

EagleRider

EagleRider Launches Online Pre-Owned Motorcycle Exchange

Enabling dealers to purchase high-quality, pre-owned late model Harleys, motorcycle rental and travel specialist EagleRider has announced a new online Pre-Owned Motorcycle Exchange.

Earlier this year EagleRider launched an all-new program for qualified dealers to purchase pre-owned Harley-Davidson motorcycles from EagleRider’s expansive fleet. “The EagleRider Dealer Exchange, known as ERDX, is a convenient and cost-effective way for dealerships to expand their pre-owned bike offerings from a trusted source.” 
In June, EagleRider expanded its online platform by launching a mobile application, so purchasers of pre-owned bikes can buy inventory from any place at any time directly from their mobile device.
 “ERDX is a complete game-changer, not just for us, but for the motorcycle industry,” said Richard Wolff, COO and CFO of EagleRider. “We are thrilled to see another advantage of our Harley-Davidson partnership come to life.”
Wolff says that ERDX is a direct result of the May 2017 announced strategic alliance between Harley-Davidson Motor Company and EagleRider. Using the ERDX private web portal, dealers have exclusive access to the best source for low mileage, high-quality Harley-Davidson motorcycles that have been serviced and maintained by H-D trained technicians with OEM parts.  The pre-owned bikes for sale on ERDX are factory stock and EagleRider has full condition reports and service records.
 ERDX officially launched on January 2, 2018 and now has over 350 dealers actively purchasing on the site.  “Response from participating dealers has been extremely positive” said Wolff, “with the initial inventory selling out in a matter of days.  Now that we are in the height of riding season, hundreds of high quality bikes are being put into inventory over the next 60 days and will be replenished on an ongoing basis as EagleRider continues to turn its rental fleet throughout the year.”
Rocco Falabella, Re-Marketing Director of ERDX, said: “We’ve received a lot of positive feedback since launching the program. Dealers have quickly realized the great value these bikes have and the convenience of buying through ERDX and are responding accordingly.”

Mid-USA

Mid-USA Additions
 
Ancra Gradual Release Tie Downs

These Ancra tie downs feature a gradual release system built into the ratchet that enables the rider to back the ratchet off one click at a time, eliminating the exploding ratchet that pops open forcefully under load.
They are great for leveling the bike on a trailer or reducing the compression on the front shocks, without having to release all of the webbing and retighten. The top of the line 1.5” wide tie down has a working load capacity of 600 pounds per strap, and measures 66” in overall length with a sewn hand loop.
Made with 4,500 lb rated aircraft quality nylon webbing and engineered to withstand weather and abrasion, this is Ancra’s strongest, most secure ratcheting tie down and uses Ancra’s patented 1,800 lb rated heavy duty cam buckle with pressure plate, for a non-slip lock with two 1,200 lb rated vinyl-coated S hooks per strap. They are available in black or red.

Exhaust Retaining Kits

Mid-USA says that these are the best retaining kit systems for attaching exhausts. “The quality of these American made retaining systems is unsurpassed - made from stainless steel for durability and long life they feature positive locking and quickly unlock to make it easier to remove and reattach pipes.”
Kits are available for Shovelheads ’66-‘84 (including flange gaskets) and for all Evolution and Twin Cam models.

Lucas Oil 5 Gallon Buckets

Mid-USA and Lucas Oil have teamed up to offer the most cost effective and convenient way to buy motorcycle oil. Mid-USA is offering both petroleum and synthetic base motor oils in several viscosities, as well as primary chain case and gear oil.

Performance Cams for M-8

Mid-USA now offers two new bolt-in cams from Andrews Products to upgrade the performance of the M-8, and an extensive line of Andrews performance parts to fit most models and years.

MID-USA
www.mid-usa.com

S&S Cycle

Oil Pump and Cam Plate for M-8

S&S Cycle continues a prolific 2018 new product program with this new oil pump and cam plate for M-8 Softails and Tourers.
“Oil is often referred to as the lifeblood of an engine and getting it into and out of the right places at the right times can be a matter of life or death for internal components,” according to S&S VP of Marketing David Zemla.
“This is where our engineers have stepped in with our proven dual scavenge pump technology in a brand new design for the M-8 drivetrain. Independent scavenge sections for flywheel cavity as well as cam chest combine to create a superior tool for distributing oil throughout your engine; debris screens and a powerful magnet keep the flotsam from following it.
“Increased flow capacity on both feed and scavenge side as well as adjustable pressure relief valve are all designed to keep lubricant flowing throughout the engine, under even the most extreme conditions.
“Matched to the billet aluminum S&S cam plate, you’ve created the perfect combination of oil management for M-8 powered touring or H-D Softail models.”

S&S CYCLE INC.
www.sscycle.com

MSI

Wheel Blanks for Flat Track Bikes

Californian wheel blank specialist MSI says that a slew of new sizes are now in stock for Flat Track models - including a new 19” (19 x 2.75”) which sales manager Lizette Hotinger says is “one of the narrowest available wheels offered for the flat track rider. 
“This wheel blank size has never been made available to the industry until now. Forged and machined from prime 6061 aluminum here in California, this wheel blank meets the Rim & Tire Association standards.
“The 19 x 2.75” now adds another choice of popular wheel size for racing. Whether you build wheels for a Harley, Kawasaki, Yamaha or Indian flat track bike, we have four 19” wheel sizes that you can select from: 19 x 2.15”, 19 x 2.75”, 19 x 3.0” and 19 x 3.5”.
“We supply the 24 lb blanks and leave the design entirely in the customer’s hands - you can go as light as you like. We have 28 different wheel blank sizes in total, in 2D and 3D formats, with rotors, pulleys, sprockets and a wide selection of tires from Vee Rubber and Shinko in stock and ready to ship.”

MSI
www.msiwheelblanks.com

JIMS

JIMS Swingarm Bearing

Camarillo, California based specialist JIMS says that “swingarm bearings must be installed and aligned accurately to avoid unsafe handling and ensure control of the motorcycle. Our new swingarm bearings installer fits both the different depth drive side and brake side bearings. Plus, we took it one step further and added a remover to press the spacer out of the bearing.”
JIMS, USA, www.jimsusa.com

Harley-Davidson

MY2019 - "Bold Motorcycle Performance and Ride Enhancing Technology" - Plus a Chocolate Colored Power Cruiser
 
Being widely touted as a class defining "Power Cruiser", Harley’s new 114" M-8 FXDR (with inverted front forks) headlines a MY2019 announcement that, were it not for the recent "More Roads" strategy unveil, would probably be attracting criticism for lack of adventure with investors clicking "sell".
That said, the share price did twitch in the right direction on the announcement day, closing up over 2% at $43.41; whether or not it will sustain or mark genuine momentum remains to be seen.

Check out the lean angle! Seen here in white (because no motorcycle should ever be brown!), the chassis, lightweight components and exhaust have been designed and clearanced to emphasize the intent of Harley’s new FXDR - a 114" M-8 Softail

As it is, Harley has bought itself several years of breathing space (see Comment, page 4) and turned range enhancements and tech finessing into an acceptable interim stage.
"The all-out performance of the new 2019 Harley-Davidson FXDR sets the pace for Harley-Davidson's new 2019 motorcycles, accessories and gear that deliver fresh style, thrilling performance and advanced technology," says the company’s news release.
"Less than a month after announcing plans for future product in new-to-the-brand categories and a commitment to advance its heavyweight Touring and Cruiser models, the Motor Company introduces a suite of new products that will continue to inspire people around the world to experience the exhilaration of riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle."
In addition to the FXDR, that "suite" revolves around a new Boom! Box GTS infotainment system for select Touring and Trike models; an all-new electronic Reflex Linked Brake system for the Tri-Glide Ultra and Freewheeler that incorporates ABS, Traction Control System (TCS), Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS) and a linked front and rear braking system; a new premium Touring suspension technology for the trikes that includes pre-load adjustment and selected extensions to standard availability of the 114" M-8.
Three CVOs offer "advanced technology, exclusive components," the new Boom Box GTS and the top of the line 117" M-8.
Beyond that it is the "performance, style and technology from Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Accessories" that is pimped, including the 7" ‘Daymaker’ adaptive LED headlamp with patented sensors and electronics to determine lean angle; a new ‘Dominion’ Collection, "individual accessory components for almost unlimited custom options" (in gloss black anodized and bronze powder coated base colors); EPA compliant "performance-enhancing" Screamin' Eagle stage upgrades that "are engineered to generate specific torque and horsepower gains"; a new 4.5-inch Screamin’ Eagle muffler for the Sport Glide and a new timer cover and inserts for the M-8.
However, the new FXDR is genuinely interesting, not least as another extension to what can be achieved with the M-8 Softails - even within the constraints of factory design and production engineering.

The "liberal use of weight-saving aluminum and composite components," including a new aluminum swingarm, aluminum subframe, lightweight wheels and composite fenders to "amplify every aspect of its agile handling and performance," is to be welcomed.
The upside down forks? The single most effective and important genuine handling and performance upgrade known to mankind. But, if you really do hope that it will be bought by riders who like to "lean in", the big fail is the missing steering stabilizer - to work with the cornering clearance you’ve given the bike? There could be trouble ahead, especially since having discovered pre-load adjustment for the tourers, where is the improved compression and rebound dampening when it finally looks like there’s a stock Harley on which they would be a boon.
The aim, clearly, is to appeal to those who still ‘dig’ streetfighter styling, handling and performance, and to give a nod to where mono shock designs such as the FXR and Dyna might have gone. Whether it will convincingly fill the so-called "American Muscle Bike" void that Harley and Indian both missed with the V-Rod and Victory respectively remains to be seen. That said, the jury is still out on whether or not that is a design and handling niche that really exists among riders in the United States, but the FXDR should sell well in Europe – just as the Sport Glide has.
Oh, and sorry guys, but those paint jobs? Not really very "go fast," are they? When’s the last time anyone did a track day on a chocolate colored bike? Where’s the red paintjob to match the ‘R’ – oh, of course, silly me, I forgot - that’ll be the spring limited edition special to get the inventory cleared!

FT Twins presented by Vance & Hines

“King Henry” Wiles Reigns Again at Peoria TT

Long live the King of Peoria! “King Henry” Wiles (No. 17 Bandit Industries/Wilco Racing/Willy Built Kawasaki Ninja 650) extended his reign in Saturday’s 72nd annual AFT Twins presented by Vance & Hines Peoria TT by claiming a 14th consecutive victory in the prestigious race at Peoria, Illinois, August 18.

Photo Credit: Scott Hunter/American Flat Track

Wiles was certainly forced to earn it on Saturday. In the race’s early stages he found himself trapped behind three superstars with prior TT race wins - Briar Bauman (No. 14 Zanotti Racing Indian Scout FTR750), who went on to take second; Jake Johnson (No. 5 Estenson Racing/McCandless Truck Center Indian Scout FTR750) who went on to take third, and Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle Rogers Racing SDI Scout FTR750), who, in a rare podium miss this season, finished fourth.

Privateer Indian FTR759 rider Hayden Gillim (No. 169 Indian/Cycle World/S&S Cycle Scout FTR750) was fifth, Wrecking Crew rider Bronson Bauman was sixth with privateer Jarod Venderkooi bringing the top place Harley XG750R home in seventh.
The win keeps Wiles’ remarkable win streak intact and keeps his slim title hopes alive, if only just. Mees leads him by 92 points (305 to 213) with four races and 100 points left in play on the 2018 schedule. Wiles is the sole rider remaining with even a remote mathematical chance of preventing the reigning Grand National Champion from repeating his victory.
However, Mees’ win at the Black Hills H-D Half Mile at Rapid City during the Sturgis Rally secured a second consecution series championship for Indian Motorcycle.
In the AFT Singles another TT master, Jessie Janisch (No. 132 Roof Systems/West Bend Harley-Davidson-backed Yamaha YZ450F), took the win becoming the 10th different winner of the AFT Singles in a wide open season so far - it may have been Janisch’s first victory of the season but it was his second consecutive and third in total Peoria TT victory (’15, ’17, and ’18).
The 2016 series Champion Ryan Wells (No. 94 RMR/Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda CRF450) grabbed second; TT ace Cole Frederickson (No. 73 Vince & Denise Holt, Ride Motorsports CRF450R) was third; Buffalo Chip TT runner-up Jacob Lehmann (No. 14 Vince & Denise Holt/Ride Motorsports Honda CRF450R) finished fourth, followed by 2017 Peoria TT podium finisher Ben Lowe (No. 20 Bruce Lowe Excavating/Team Green Kawasaki KX450F) in fifth.
The series stays in Illinois now for the second Springfield Mile of the season, September 2 followed by the H-D Williams Grove Half Mile at Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania on September 8, the Minnesota Mile at the end of September the series then wraps up at the Meadowlands Mile at East Rutherford, New Jersey, October 6.

AMA

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame announces Class of 2018

December 7 will see The AMA welcome six new inductees into its Motorcycle Hall of Fame at the Hilton Columbus/Polaris in Columbus, Ohio.
The ceremony will officially induct four-time AMA National Enduro Champion Terry Cunningham, stunt rider Gary Davis, flat track and road racing tuner Skip Eaken, MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden, flat track racer Clifford “Corky” Keener, and pioneering motorcyclist Mary McGee. 

“The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2018 recognizes greatness in racing and ambassadorship, whether on the track, at the mechanic’s bench or in the court of public opinion,” said Ken Ford, a member of the AMA board of directors and chairman of the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation board.
“In their own way, each of these individuals has advanced motorcycling for generations of motorcyclists, and we’re honored to recognize them in perpetuity as inductees into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”
The induction ceremony is part of the 2018 AMA Legends & Champions Weekend, December 7-9, which also includes the 2018 AMA Championship Banquet at the Hilton Columbus/Polaris on December 8, and an open house and formal instalment of Hall of Fame honors at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, on December 9. In addition, the AMA Racing and Recreational Riding Commissions will meet to discuss rules governing amateur racing at the annual AMA Congress, also at the Hilton that weekend.
The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame was established in 1998 by the AMHF to honor the legends and heroes of American motorcycling and highlight their achievements and contributions to motorcycling. Hall of Fame inductees represent eight areas: Ambassadors/Industry, Design/Engineering, Dirt Track, Leadership/Advocacy, Motocross/Supercross, Off-Road, Road Racing and Specialty Competition.
Terry Cunningham is a champion off-road rider (a four-time AMA Grand National Enduro Champion) who played a significant role in the growth of off-road racing in the United States in the 1980s. His efforts anchored the success of the Husqvarna Motorcycle Company throughout the decade.
His other awards included six International Six Days Enduro gold medals and a silver medal. He also was a member of the American 1982 ISDE team that finished second overall against the best off-road riders in the world.
Gary Davis, from Auburn, California, has spent more than 30 years in show business. He performed, coordinated and directed stunts in more than 280 films, 250 television episodes and 190 commercials. His longtime contributions have showcased the thrills of motorcycling to millions through the reach of Hollywood.
Davis’ motorcycle career began as an AMA professional dirt-track racer in 1969, riding alongside notables such as Hall of Famers Kenny Roberts and Gary Scott. He began exhibition motorcycle jumping in 197. In 1972, he entered the Guinness World Records for clearing 21 cars, bettering Knievel’s 19-car mark. After three years of jumping and more than 300 public jumps, he began doing stunt work.
Skip Eaken was a motorcycle racing tuner from Lodi, Ohio, who began building competitive and reliable flat track racers in the 1970s. He notched his first Grand National victory in 1983 with Ted Boody riding an Eaken-prepped Harley-Davidson.
Eaken (who died in 2012) is best known as the mechanic who worked on AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Bubba Shobert’s factory Honda motorcycles in the 1980s, when Shobert won three AMA Grand National Championships, collecting an AMA Superbike title and 28 Grand National flat track wins.
Known as “The Kentucky Kid,” Nicky Hayden, of Owensboro, Kentucky, was a force on the American motorcycle racing scene before taking his talent to the world stage, ultimately winning motorcycle racing’s grandest championship, the FIM MotoGP title in 2006.
Born in 1981, Hayden raced flat track and road raced Yamaha YSR50s and then Honda RS125s as a youngster. He turned pro at the age of 16. As a professional, Hayden competed in the AMA Grand National Championship, the pro flat track series, as well as in AMA Pro Road Racing.
He signed with American Honda in 1999 to race the AMA 600 Supersport class, winning the 600 cc championship that same year. Honda moved Hayden to the factory AMA Superbike team in 2000, and in 2002 he captured the AMA Superbike Championship. At age 21, Hayden became the youngest champion in the history of AMA Superbike racing.
Hayden then moved to the Repsol Honda MotoGP effort for 2003, earning his first MotoGP win at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, in 2005. He won there again in 2006 while on his way to winning the MotoGP World Championship. Hayden moved to the factory Ducati team in 2009, returning to Honda in 2014. He began racing in the FIM World Superbike series for Honda in 2016.
Tragically, Hayden was hit by a car while training on a bicycle in Italy on May 17, 2017. He succumbed to his injuries five days later, on May 22.
Clifford “Corky” Keener was a professional flat track racer during the 1970s. Known by the nickname “Mr Dirt,” he worked as an electrician for General Motors Corp. while he was getting his racing career started. He eventually became a factory Harley-Davidson rider and won five AMA Grand National races during his career. He raced during a talent-filled era that often had him banging bars with the likes of AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers Kenny Roberts and Jay Springsteen.
Mary McGee was among the first women to race motorcycles in motocross and road racing events in the United States. She started her off-road career by riding a 1962 250 cc Honda Scrambler in an AMA District 37 enduro. She began riding Baja events in 1967 and, in 1975, rode solo in the Baja 500.
During the 1970s, she worked for Motorcyclist magazine and joined editors Jody Nichols, Brad Zimmerman and Rich Cox for a 24-hour road race in Las Vegas, in which the team changed riders every hour on a 650 cc Suzuki.
In more recent years, she has returned to competing in select vintage races, while speaking out in support of women racers and recreational riders getting started in motorcycling.
www.americanmotorcyclist.com

NAMZ Custom Products

Pulsing Brake Module; Heated Grip Extensions

Oreland, Pennsylvania based NAMZ Custom Products has again answered customer requests with this Badlands branded pulsing brake module. 

PBM-01

Founder Jeff Zelinsky says this is one of the most often asked about product ideas not yet offered and says “the PBM-01 will operate perfectly before any existing Badlands Module, or can be installed as a stand-alone unit on any motor vehicle.”
“Tiny in size, when installed it will pulse five times before the brake light stays illuminated. Each time you release the brake and re-apply, the brake light will pulse five times then stay illuminated again.” It is backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Also seen here are NAMZ 18” long plug-n-play heated grip extensions for 2008 and up H-D models. The extension kit comes complete with installed heat shrink tubing, male and female connectors and color matching wire. Simple to install, it will allow the use of up to 20” tall handlebars.

Plug-n-play heated grip extensions

Celebrating its 19th year in business, NAMZ sells fluid transfer lines, custom installation supplies and Badlands lighting modules. The full range of NAMZ/Badlands products is available through Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, Tucker Rocky, Mid-USA, V-Twin Manufacturing, Parts Canada, Motovan, Les Importations Thibault, Parts Europe, Custom Chrome Europe, Motorcycle Storehouse, W&W Cycles, Zodiac, Rollies Speed Shop, Wildrider International Pty Ltd., or if out of stock at preferred distributor dealers can order direct from the NAMZ website.

NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS
www.namzccp.com

Rebuffini

NEXO 4.0 Inverted Front Fork

Respected Italian parts and accessory manufacturer Rebuffini has designed and developed its innovative Nexo 4.0 inverted front end “to offer supreme performance”.

With 46 mm inner tube and 58 mm clamps, it is equipped with a wide range of settings options “in order to personalize the set-up, such as spring preload (on the cap), compression (on the leg) and extension (on the cap).
“For the improvement of smoothness, the fork legs are CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) diamond coated and the tubes and inner cartridges are lapped to reduce friction.”
The aluminum fork bottoms are precision CNC-machined from 3D CAD and FEM analysis for the correct sizing and maximum lightness. They are 810 mm long with 120 mm stroke and 108 mm radial caliper bracket.

There are 40 positions of rebound adjustment with 10 mm of spring preload adjustment and they are ABS sensor compatible. The technology in this fully adjustable product is derived from the Superbike 46 by Italian suspension specialist MUPO Race Suspension - a leading brand in SBK and other international racing sectors.
The set comes complete with the triple clamps, which have built-in brake-tee lines for a clean look and a faster installation, or an external brake line splitter banjo for Dyna ABS system dual calipers. They are black anodized finished, using Rebuffini’s “black forever” color technique.
Available for all FXRs, Dynas, V-Rods and Softails – including the 2018 Softails.

REBUFFINI CYCLES
www.rebuffini.com

RC Components

H-D Touring Hub Design

Bowling Green, Kentucky based wheels to exhausts manufacturer RC Components has announced a new hub design that is said to allow factory 2014-2018 HD Touring brake rotors to be used on any RC Components front wheel. 

“The clean-sleek style of this hub complements any of RC Components’ 60+ wheel designs and is available in your choice of a show chrome finish or a rich gloss black,” says the company.
Additional new products this year have included new billet wheel designs – notably their ‘Kore’ split spoke design, ‘Revolt’ 9-spoker and the “aggressive and twisted style” of the ‘Crisis’ – like most RC designs available in 16”- 30” sizes in a choice of chrome or black and machined (eclipse finish) with matching accessories such as air cleaners, rotors, pulleys and sprockets.

Also new is their Scout ‘Stocker’ wide tire kit - engineered to be an easy bolt-on application that allows any RC Components 18 × 8.5” wheel and 240 mm tire to be a “perfect fit inside the factory Scout swingarm, with no modifications necessary.”
Founded in 1989 by drag race enthusiast Rick Ball, RC Components also manufactures RCX exhaust headers and slip-on mufflers (including slip-ons and headers for 2017 and up M-8 Touring models).
The company backs its in-house chrome with a 7-year warranty and offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects on many of their products.

RC COMPONENTS
www.rccomponents.com

Design Engineering

DEI Titanium Pipe Shield with LR Technology

Avon Lake, Ohio based thermal barrier and sound control specialist Design Engineering is now offering what it says is a “better form of protection from searing exhaust heat.”
The company says its flexible titanium pipe shield with LR (Lava Rock) technology “joins two durable flexible materials together for dual heat protection. The outer layer is made from pulverized and stranded Basalt lava rock made into a tightly woven weave for durability and strength.
“The shield’s inside material is made of a special high temperature resistant fabric (89% silica) that withstands 350 degrees more heat than glass fiber - up to 1350 °F. Finished off with stainless steel offsets and heavy-duty rivets, the shield features a standoff bracket design to add an air gap between the shield and pipe for maximum cooling and heat dissipation.”
In addition to leg protection, DEI’s shield can also be used as a barrier between the exhaust and plastic bodywork, or protection of critical systems such as suspension components or electrical harnesses. Designed to be flexible, the shield can be installed on almost any pipe shape or pipe diameter and is available in a 4” x 8” or 4” x 12”.
DEI is best known for its titanium LR exhaust wrap. Available as a wrap or a sleeve in a choice of finishes it is extremely popular with customizers and performance tuners, it is engineered to be stronger than glass fibre wraps for improved thermal performance, durability and reliability. Installation is easy because the material is more pliable with no pre-wetting needed. It is temperature resistant to 1,800 °F (nearly 1,000 °C) and is available in all of Design Engineering’s popular roll lengths.
Founded in 1995, DEI is a major manufacturer and supplier of high performance automotive aftermarket products selling worldwide to all sectors of the international powersports market. DEI specializes in the development of thermal and acoustic performance products.

DESIGN ENGINEERING INC
www.deipowersports.com

Cardo Systems

Voice-Command Operated Motorcycle Communications Systems

Cardo Systems, who claim global leadership in the fast growing, rapidly developing and highly competitive motorcyclist wireless communications systems market, appears to have made a big leap forward in terms of the user-friendly ergonomics of its PACKTALK line.
Its next generation PACKTALK Bold features voice-command activation, coupled with their Dynamic Mesh Communication technology, and is said to be the world’s first natural voice-command operated motorcycle communications system.
Utilizing Cardo’s proprietary Dynamic Mesh Communication technology, the company says it has created “the industry’s most sophisticated and dynamic motorcycle communications system.”
First seen at EICMA, Milan, last November, Cardo says PACKTALK Bold “represents a new standard in ease-of-use, seamlessly integrating with Apple’s Siri and “OK Google” voice-command platforms. 

Cardo’s founder and CEO Abraham Glezerman: “PACKTALK Bold is the world’s most powerful, yet easy to use motorcycle communications system, and it takes rider safety to the next level”

With natural voice-command, riders can simply say “Hey Cardo,” and the always-on system reacts instantaneously. It no longer requires a specific activation action such as push-to-talk. Instead, the system allows riders to keep their hands on the bars at all times. Cardo sees this as “a significant advancement over current systems that required sometimes tedious and ineffective activation commands.
“PACKTALK Bold is the world’s most powerful, yet easy to use motorcycle communication system, and we’re thrilled to bring it to North American riders,” said Dr. Abraham Glezerman, Cardo’s founder and CEO. “With PACKTALK Bold, we’re taking rider safety to the next level: instead of fidgeting with buttons or wheels, riders can now voice-control their unit on the go in a natural way and without ever having to take their hands off the bars.”
The system utilizes the new minimalistic and intuitive Cardo Connect mobile app for setting and controlling the company’s entire Freecom and PACKTALK line of devices on the road, with the all-new Cardo Assistant App interfacing the rider’s natural language commands.

Cardo Dynamic Mesh technology allows up to 15 riders to wirelessly communicate with each other with the same ease of connecting just two. Unlike Bluetooth communications, Dynamic Mesh Communication-powered devices are interconnected, thus allowing a group of riders to seamlessly join, leave or change positions at a distance of up to five miles without causing a breakdown in communications. The self-adjusting network automatically works to keep the riding group connected and features “class-leading” wind noise suppression.
“PACKTALK Bold merges our pioneering Dynamic Mesh technology with smoothly activated natural voice commands to deliver a superior riding experience that simply can’t be understated," said Dr. Glezerman.
The system uses a single-unit design, which is simply clipped to a helmet and features a slick roller controller for easy volume adjustment. Its rider-to-rider range is up to one mile or up to five miles when used in a group mesh arrangement.
Cardo also announces the availability of PACKTALK Slim, an integral communicator, packing the same performance inside a 0.25” super sleek and thin shell. PACKTALK Slim is recommended by HJC - it also fits a host of other premium helmets from manufacturers such as Shoei, Arai, Bell and others.
Both products use Bluetooth 4.1 to easily connect with mobile devices like phones and GPS units, as well as universal connectivity to any Bluetooth communicators. It also features automatic volume control, smart intercom/music mixing, rider-to-passenger audio sharing, FM radio, and up to 13 hours of talk time.
All Cardo units are IP67 certified as fully waterproof and have a two-year warranty and a U.S. based customer support system.

CARDO SYSTEMS
www.cardosystems.com

Belt Drives Ltd

Upgraded Competitor Clutch for ‘98-’06 Big Twins

Belt Drives Ltd recently redesigned its popular CC-130-BB Competitor Clutch kit, to enable it to better handle the increasing horsepower and torque demands being placed on older stock and modified V-twin engines, as more of those models are upgraded.

Developed specifically for ‘98-’06 Big Twins, BDL owner Steve Yetzke says that “the new design incorporates alterations that provide an even smoother pull, positive feel and enhanced performance to handle increased HP and heavier loads with ease.”
The clutch stack height is 1.760”-1.775” with .062” of disengagement clutch travel. The assembly includes clutch hub and retaining ring, a .125” thick steel backing plate, 8 x .150” thick friction plates and 7 x .059” thick steel drive plates. The last steel plate is .090” below hub deck with the last friction plate .064” above hub deck (all tolerances to within +/- .002”).
The Competitor Clutch has a ball bearing pressure plate with 42 x 5/16” steel ball bearings, diaphragm spring and collar, 6 x shoulder bolts, adjusting screw and jam nut.

BELT DRIVES LTD
www.beltdrives.com

AIMExpo

AIMExpo Announces Dealer Summit 2018
Las Vegas, October 11-14

The American International Motorcycle Expo presented by Nationwide (AIMExpo) has introduced Dealer Summit 2018, a new initiative focused on supporting the powersports retailer at which the key role or powersports dealers will be emphasized on the trade days (October 11 & 12).

“With its move to Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay Convention Center, this year’s event provides an ideal opportunity for dealers to unite with their industry peers at a crucial time in the marketplace. Dealer Summit 2018 will take place during AIMExpo presented by Nationwide’s trade-only days and will put the focus on the vital role retailers play in the long-term growth of the industry, where they serve as the face of powersports to the general consumer.

“The foundation of AIMExpo presented by Nationwide is to bring the powersports world together in a collective effort to stimulate growth,” said Mike Webster, Senior Vice President, MIC Events. “As part of the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) the industry’s expo is committed to increasing show content relevant to dealers, with special attention towards topics helping retailers navigate the continued evolution in consumer trends. Dealers play arguably the most integral part of the future success of powersports since they are the front line of engagement with the consumer. Dealer Summit 2018 is focused on creating unity amongst dealers through knowledge and working towards the common goal of sustained industry growth.”

Highlights of the Dealer Summit include an update by the MIC about industry-wide efforts being made to help retailers and the industry by increasing ridership, while a keynote address will bring invaluable first-hand information from an important figure in Washington. United States Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke has been invited to offer the opening keynote where he will address the current administration’s agenda of increasing outdoor recreation, including motorized recreation, critical for the long-term growth of powersports as an outdoor activity.
Attending dealers will also receive their own very special keynote at the “Dealers Only luncheon sponsored by KTM,” a complementary program on Friday, October 12, featuring Nick Gray, the founder of Museum Hack. A motorcycle enthusiast and member of the millennial generation, Gray addressed the industry at last year’s MIC Symposium and captured the room with his direct, insightful observations of our business.
Gray shares how he reimagined the generally staid museum tour into an engaging experience, and will offer ideas to view dealerships in a different light by considering them as an experience for customers. An exclusive free follow-up webinar with Nick will be provided after the show.
“More ideas and knowledge can be gained at the Powersports Dealer Seminars presented by PowerSports Business which provide crucial education and best practices.  Targeted at improving daily business operations, influential speakers from both within and outside the industry will present across three topic areas that include Sales and Marketing, Powering Profits, and Leadership Plus.” Seminars are free for dealers and take place on the show’s trade days.
“Dealer Summit 2018 is about industry working together to improve all businesses, and the very important role retailers play in sustaining industry growth.”
www.aimexpousa.com

MC XIII Cesis Custom Bike Show, Latvia

MC XIII Cesis Custom Bike Show
Latvia, July 21, 2018

The fourth annual MC XIII Cesis Custom Bike Show took place in Pils Park at Cesis in Latvia in July, overlooked by the impressive ruins of Cesis Castle, with the event taking place in conjunction with the annual town festival, which regularly draws 60,000 visitors over three days.

Competitors from Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia entered 34 bikes, aiming for three Best Custom awards plus Best Old Timer, Best Engineering and Best Paint.
Judging was by an expert jury and competitor vote, and in addition there was also a Best Public award. 

This is the first year a show from the Baltic states has been an AMD World Championship official affiliate, and the winner received 2,000 euro expenses to compete at the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building at INTERMOT Customized in Cologne, Germany, from October 3-7.

Killer Custom from Lithuania came first with “Mutant”, a heavily modified 1998 Softail Standard

Second place was won by local builder Konstantins Kobzevs

Third placed Juris Nelke’s Honda CX500 Cafe Racer was highly rated by the expert jury

Killer Custom from Lithuania was judged Best Custom with “Mutant”, a heavily modified 1998 Softail Standard featuring a handmade custom front end with leaf spring fork, custom 17” wheels, one-off handlebars, gas tank and exhaust.
They are no strangers to the World Championship, having previously competed in 2013 in the Modified Harley-Davidson class.
www.mc13.lv